Vancouver, BC – Vancouver has reached its lowest violent crime rate in 23 years. Focused investments in frontline services and targeted enforcement have produced major declines in crime across the city, with the Downtown Eastside seeing significant improvements during Task Force Barrage.
“This is what happens when you fully fund frontline services and direct resources to the areas that need them most,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “These results prove that our approach is working and it’s critically important we build on this momentum.”
Results That Speak for Themselves
Since the launch of Task Force Barrage, the Downtown Eastside has seen real, measurable improvements:
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- Violent crime is down 18%, the lowest citywide rate in 23 years
- Robberies have dropped by 44%, nearly cut in half
- Serious assaults are down by 23%
- Police have seized 1,458 weapons, including 171 firearms, and arrested 879 individuals with outstanding warrants
- Structure fires in the same area are down by 30%
Stronger Oversight for the Downtown Eastside – District 5
To sustain this progress, the Vancouver Police Department will establish a new district – District 5 – with dedicated, permanent resources for the Downtown Eastside and neighbouring communities. This builds directly on ABC’s commitment to expand community policing and deliver the resources needed to keep communities safe.
“District 5 is about sustained focus and accountability,” said Sim. “This will keep organized crime off our streets and support a safer, healthier city for everyone.”
Building on Progress: VanStat Pilot Program
To sustain Vancouver’s public safety and city service improvements, on Oct 8, Councillor Lenny Zhou will introduce a motion to launch VanStat, an adapted version of the CompStat program used by police departments across North America.
If approved by Council, VanStat will enable monthly performance review meetings incorporating data from police, fire, sanitation, housing, arts and culture, and business services to improve transparency and accountability. The pilot program will begin in the West End, Downtown core, Strathcona, and Mount Pleasant, with the goal of citywide expansion and collaboration with provincial partners.
“VanStat is about using data and collaboration to improve our city,” said Vancouver City Councillor Lenny Zhou, who will be introducing the motion. “It is about breaking down silos, holding every department accountable, and making sure the public can clearly see the progress we are making together.”
Media Contact:
Sarah Kanakos Director of Communications, ABC Party
Email: sarah.kanakos@abcvancouver.ca